What Is The Distinction Between An Attorney, Lawyer, Barrister, And Esquire?
The legal profession has as many variations in titles. The titles: attorney, lawyer, barrister and Esquire are frequently used, sometimes interchangeably. By definition, each has a unique meaning. Attorney: Generally speaking, an attorney, or attorney-at-law, is a person who is a member of the legal profession. An attorney is qualified and licensed to represent a client within a specific judicial system. By most definitions, an attorney may act on the client’s behalf, hold power of attorney or guardianship, and plead or defend a case in legal proceedings in front of a judge, jury or both. The English word ‘attorney’ has French origins, where it meant “a person acting for another as an agent or deputy.” Lawyer: A lawyer, by definition, is someone who is trained in the field of law and provides advice and aid on legal matters. The term ‘lawyer’ has English roots. Although the terms ‘lawyer and attorney’ are used interchangeably by many people, there is a distinction. Within some judicial
